For the better part of my life, I kept a little blue diary by my bedpost. Every once in a while, in an attempt to reduce stress, I would scribble down a vague date and vent my frustrations onto blank white pages.
Somewhere along the line, I transferred my troubles onto an unsophisticated notepad program on my Dell computer, but the benefits of journaling have never changed. Keeping a diary can prove to be a therapeutic experience. When you’re having a lousy day, writing can do wonders for your mood and provide a way to deal with chaotic feelings.
If the weight is off of your shoulders, perhaps you will find satisfaction in recording memories. Most of us have a way of keeping track of special occasions and events, whether through the means of social media, blogs or even scrapbooks. These can all be forms of journaling and whichever path you take, you may look back and appreciate your accomplishments, growth and even mistakes.
What’s more, this type of writing makes room for self-analysis. A one-on-one monologue with yourself can bring clarity to your everyday life and boost your self-esteem. I, have been able to sort out my own ordeals without anyone else’s two-cent advice weighing on my mind. Since your writing is exclusive to you, you won’t risk any judgment. You might just find your inner muse during an inspirational all-nighter.
A diary may also serve as a to-do list or goal setter, granted that you aren’t having stressful episodes or contemplating the meaning of life. As simple as jotting down reminders or listing out priorities sound, it pays off in the end. While you’re at it, count your blessings and practice graciousness before Turkey Day. There are plenty of things to be thankful for.
I’m surely not alone in the long tradition of journaling. There is a rather romantic aspect to jotting down a train of thought or experience, which is a perspective that needs to be positively introduced.
Whatever your intended purpose, I encourage you to keep chronicle of your good and bad days either digitally or on old-fashioned paper. When it comes down to it, journaling is done for your own benefit and as you deem fit.
After all, we know ourselves best.